Chris-Craft Launch 38

Classic looks and a seaworthy ride.

by Chris Caswell

“The Chris-Craft Launch 38 is the ultimate dayboat for Great Lake boaters,” says Craig Duchow of CenterPointe Yacht Services, with five locations in Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan.

As the largest model in the Chris-Craft Launch series, the 38 combines a centerline console (featuring triple high-back seats and a swept-back windscreen) with separate seating and entertainment areas both fore and aft reached via secure walkarounds on either side. The Launch 38 is evocative of classic speedboats, with yacht-like styling from the reversed transom with wide swim platform to the gentle tumblehome topsides. The hull has double strakes, a flared bow and a 20-degree deep-V for a dry, seaworthy ride in all conditions.

Forward of the helm is a sunbathing chaise in the bow with high sides; this seat converts from a double seat into a full sunpad with a filler cushion. Aft, twin curved settees wrap around the walkway to the transom. Enhancing this entertainment area is the outdoor galley with grill, ceramic cooktop, microwave, icemaker, sink and fridge, all tucked into a sleek teak console.

Down below are two sleeping areas: An island double berth forward and a cabin aft with a double and single berth. Completing the weekending features are a spacious, enclosed head with Tecma electric toilet and full-headroom shower.

Duchow adds: “The large, open bow, spacious cockpit and complete galley above deck are great for entertaining family and friends on short excursions. The bluewater hull design gives the owner confidence to navigate large expanses of open water. If you plan to overnight, you will find all the comforts of home below deck with sleeping for five, along with a separate head and shower.”

Sterndrive packages include twin Mercury V8 Bravo IIIs to 430 hp, twin Volvo V8 6.2L Duoprops to 430 hp, or twin Volvo D6 diesel Duoprops to 400 hp. Outboard packages using twin or triple Mercury Verado or Yamaha four-strokes up to 350 hp are also available.

CenterPointe encourages skippers to “build their own” Chris-Craft, adding options such as a fiberglass hardtop, generator, bowthrusters and teak decking.

Ready for day trips or weeklong getaways, the Chris-Craft Launch 38 brings stylish elegance, outstanding construction and satisfying seaworthiness to a Great Lake near you.

DEALERS
CenterPointe Yacht Services
centerpointeservice.com
414-273-0711

South Shore Marine
southshoremarine.com
419-433-5798

Walstrom Marine
walstrom.com
231-526-2141